Green tomatoes are the unripe version of the familiar red tomatoes and are typically firm in texture. They range in color from a bright, verdant green to a more muted, paler hue as they begin to ripen. Apart from being a staple in Southern U.S. cuisine, particularly famous for being fried, green tomatoes can be used in various dishes like salsas, chutneys, and pickles.
Scent-wise, green tomatoes have a distinctly grassy and slightly tangy aroma, which is sharper and less sweet compared to ripe tomatoes. The scent is often described as fresh and earthy with a hint of acidity, reflecting their unripe nature. This unique fragrance is sometimes captured in perfumes and scented products to convey a sense of freshness and natural simplicity.